Q: I called the Fire Department and asked if they would send someone out because my smoke detector/carbon monoxide detector, etc. was going off. I just wanted them to take a look at it, and they sent numerous fire trucks to my house, with lights and sirens blaring. Why did they do that?
A: The Fire Department is required to send a certain number of trucks to the scene of any structure-related incident, based on the type of incident. Since we have no way of knowing the exact situation when we are dispatched, we have to assume that there is a fire or other emergency situation until we determine otherwise.
Q: I called the fire station and no one answered the phone. If there’s no one at the station, how do you know when you have an emergency call?
A: The Fire Department does not stay at the station and wait for calls to come in. There are numerous reasons that the Firefighters are not at the station. They may be on another call, training, doing equipment maintenance, or they may be at the station and just unable to answer the phone. All Fire Department personnel have personal pagers, radios, and alarms in the station that alert them to a call. That is why you should always call 9-1-1 when there is an emergency.
Q: My insurance company has asked for the insurance rating for my property. What is that, and where can I find it?
A: The insurance rating is determined by the NC Department of Insurance, State Fire Marshal’s Office. It is based on many factors, including the number of fire stations, fire hydrants, fire personnel, just to name a few. The lower the number, the better the Fire Department’s rating. The Oxford (Catfish Dist.) is currently rated as a 6 in Hydrant areas. Areas that are not in a Hydrant area is a class 9. You may call the fire station at 459-9678 to find out what your rating is.
Q: My cat is in a tree and won’t come down. Can the Fire Department come and get him?
A: The Fire Department is not able to bring a truck to rescue animals. We suggest placing food on the ground underneath the tree and when the cat gets hungry enough, he will come down. For other animal-related incidents, we suggest contacting Catawba County Animal Control at (828) 464-7686
Q: I’ve seen the Blue reflective address signs around community. How do I get one?
A: The Fire Department sells the signs for $15 each. They can be ordered by calling the Fire Department at 459-9678.
Q: How do I get a burn permit to burn outside of the city limits?
A: Burn permits for burning outside the city limits can be obtained at the Oxford Fire Stations, or on the Department of Forestry Services’ website at www.dfr.state.nc.us. They can be issued for 30 days. If you are doing a large burn, it is suggested that you alert the Fire Department in advance at 459-9678, and of course, if the fire gets out of hand, call 9-1-1.
Q: How do I know if there is a ban on burning?
A: Burning bans are usually announced on the local news channels. You can also call the Forestry Service at (828) 465-8443. Even if there is not a ban on burning, please use good judgment about burning in dry and/or windy conditions, and always be prepared before burning by having rakes and garden hoses nearby.
Q. Do volunteers get paid for their service to the community?
A: No, volunteers do not get paid per se; however their equipment and training are paid for by the department, and when a volunteer reaches the age of 55 with 20 years of service they are eligible for retirement benefits.
Q. How much does it cost for one volunteer?
A: To provide each volunteer with standard training and equipment the cost is around $3,000 per year.
Q. How does the department get money?
A: The department's budget is supplied primarily by tax money collected from property owners in the district. We are also fortunate to receive financial support from local businesses and district residents through fundraisers and straight donations.
Q. How do I become a volunteer firefighter?
A: Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a rewarding decision but one that should not be made without consideration. Many hours of training must be accomplished and certificates awarded by the State Fire Marshal's Office. Physical fitness is also a requirement as well as the ability work under stressful conditions. To start the process you must first submit an application for a volunteer position.
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